Vascular Plants of the Gila Wilderness

Presented in Association with theWestern New Mexico University Department
of Natural Sciences

Asclepias brachystephana Engelmann ex Torrey (Shortcrown Milkweed)

Family: Asclepiadaceae

Status: Native

Synonyms:
NOne

Asclepias brachystephana is found in the drier portion of the Gila National Forest and surrounding area. It is not as common apparently as elsewhere in the state. The leaves are long lanceolate and pubescent at least when fresh. The peduncled umbels of flowers are mostly lateral. The hoods have large teeth on the margins. The flowers are light pink-purple. The fruit is a follicle with very obvious longitudinal purple striping.
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